Golden State Valkyries Deliver Free TV Access for Most 2026 Games
The Golden State Valkyries are expanding access for fans this season with the majority of their games available to watch live on TV for free across the Bay Area. As the WNBA team tips off its second season next week, new broadcast deals mean viewers won’t need a subscription to catch most of the action.
Bay Area fans can tune in to KPIX and KPIX+ to watch almost all Valkyries games at no cost. Additionally, four games will be broadcast on major networks like ABC and NBC, accessible with a simple TV antenna. This widespread coverage marks a major push to grow the team’s rapidly escalating popularity.
The team made headlines last season by selling out all 22 regular season games and setting a new WNBA record for average attendance at 18,064 fans per game. This surge in local support signals growing enthusiasm for professional women’s basketball in the Bay Area and beyond.
New Season, New Broadcast Team and Rising Stars
The 2026 broadcast team features Jordan Kent on play-by-play with Morgan Ragan serving as color analyst. Kerith Burke will host pregame, halftime, and postgame coverage with analyst Zena Keita, while Matt Lively reports courtside. This seasoned broadcast lineup aims to create an engaging viewing experience for fans tuning in across California and the West.
One highlight entering the season is Kaitlyn Chen, who is fighting hard once again for a Valkyries roster spot and aiming to lead the team on the court. The enthusiasm is further fueled by local talent like Bay Area native Elle Ladine pursuing her WNBA dreams, adding a compelling human story to the team’s rise.
What This Means for Fans Nationwide
While the broadcasts are centered in the Bay Area, the increased TV exposure for the Valkyries plays an important role in expanding women’s professional basketball viewership nationwide. Free access to games on established networks is an important step in overcoming previous barriers caused by exclusive streaming platforms.
For sports fans tracking national trends, the Valkyries’ record-setting attendance and accessible coverage are signs of shifting dynamics in professional sports viewership. This has potential ripple effects on other markets, including Alaska, where WNBA interest continues climbing alongside the NBA and NHL.
Next Steps for Viewers and Fans
Fans should prepare to tune into KPIX and KPIX+ for most live game coverage, starting on the first game day next week. For those with antennas, specific matches will also broadcast on ABC and NBC. This makes follow-the-action easier than ever with no subscription fees or special equipment beyond a standard TV setup.
The Valkyries’ soaring popularity and broader free broadcasts reinforce that women’s professional basketball is coming into mainstream American sports culture with unstoppable momentum. Keep an eye on national ratings and attendance numbers as the 2026 season unfolds—this is a developing story that speaks to sports, community, and media access nationwide.
“Greater TV access will likely continue to grow the wild popularity of the team,” said a CBS Bay Area spokesperson on the new broadcast deal.
The team looks ready to build on its historic inaugural season with a stronger television presence that invites a wider fan base to experience the excitement live—right now.
